Profile photo of John McAlpine

John McAlpine

FebFebruary 19th, 1959 AprApril 16th, 2026
Portland, Oregon
John McAlpine

To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.

Obituary

John McAlpine was born on February 19, 1959, in New Haven, Connecticut, the third of four children of James P. and Sally McAlpine. Raised as a minister’s son alongside a mother who embodied a life of kindness and service, John developed an enduring commitment to helping others.

Frequent ministry driven moves across states shaped a family culture rooted in community and connection. This was deepened by the international exchange students welcomed to their family home through Sally’s work, many of whom remained lifelong friends. Sally later arranged for John to study abroad in Bogotá, Colombia, a formative experience that transformed his once struggling Spanish into fluency, sparked a lasting love for the language, and a broader worldview.

John met the love of his life, Cyndi Martin, in 1984 while they were both working at his grandfather’s restaurant in Boston- an upscale establishment with strict rules against fraternizing among the staff. John and Cyndi found a way to nurture their relationship by sharing adventures, trips, and the thrill of a quiet, secret romance. Both were in times of transition, and each supported the other’s pursuit of a master’s degree in different states, John at the University of New Mexico and Cyndi at Washington State University. They stayed connected through long-distance calls and stacks of handwritten letters. After completing their degrees and a couple more moves (Louisville, KY and Lufkin, TX), they married at John’s beloved boyhood Camp O-AT-KA in Sebago, Maine, beginning a lifetime of love, partnership, and mutual support.

John’s gift for service, often lovingly described as “aggressively helpful,” shone even brighter with the arrival of his daughters, Kelsey and Amber. He was a hands-on father who delighted in every part of their lives. Whether tiring them out at local playgrounds, cheering at sporting events, helping them move from place to place, or simply being present, John embraced fatherhood with devotion, humor, and boundless love.

A natural athlete, John could pick up almost any sport, but running was his true love. He found joy in both cross country and long-distance events beginning in high school, continuing at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), and through adulthood. After graduating from UNH, he discovered an equal love for coaching which started by coaching himself to his personal best mile time of 4:09.

Carrying his love for the Spanish language and running forward, teaching and coaching became John’s life’s work. He taught Spanish at both the high school and middle school levels, pouring himself into his students’ learning and well-being. Many stayed in touch, thanking him for the guidance and inspiration he offered. Even after retirement, he relished opportunities to substitute teach, finding joy in being part of a school community. As a coach, first at Harrisburg High School in Oregon, later at Hastings Middle School in Ohio, he built cross country programs grounded in teamwork, encouragement, and perseverance. He used to joke that cross country was the one sport where athletes with less natural talent got the most playing time. At Hastings, his program became so popular that three additional coaches were hired to support the growing number of runners.

In retirement, John devoted himself to staying connected with others and supporting Third Act Oregon, a nonprofit Working Group focused on protecting democracy and addressing climate change. He served as Coordinator for Democracy-based campaigns and on the Coordinating Committee. John held a deep belief in a government that serves everyone, upholds the rule of law, and supports people in need. He carried a steady hope that more people would step forward to defend social and environmental justice.

John was deeply at home in the outdoors. He found peace and perspective hiking in the mountains, especially among the quiet majesty of old-growth forests. (He was forever hopeful he’d catch a glimpse of Bigfoot.)

Those who knew John admired his sensitivity, compassion, and thoughtful engagement with the world. He had an uncommon ability to be fully present with anyone he spoke to, listening with genuine curiosity, offering kindness, and sharing stories that connected people.

He valued the written word and participated in several book clubs over the years. During COVID, a time of isolation for many, John began a weekly postcard project, eventually mailing more than 30 postcards each week to friends, acquaintances, and those who simply needed connection.

John’s humor, warmth, and deep love for his family shaped every part of his life. He made the world better, and he made the people around him better, simply by bringing out the best in each of us.

John is predeceased by his parents, Jim and Sally McAlpine. He is survived by his wife, Cyndi; his daughters Kelsey (Trey) Nash and Amber (Blake and Henry Arnold) McAlpine; his sisters Holly (Dennis) Dulac, Julie (Crawford) Butler, Barb (Hugh) Hennessy, and his loyal English Cream Retriever pup, Charley.

Donate

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the following organizations: Third Act, Girls on the Run, or ACLU.


Third Act Oregon- To donate specifically to the working group John was actively engaged in, you can write a check (payable to "Third Act Initiative") and write "Oregon WG" in the memo line. Mail to:
Third Act
PO Box 445
Nassau, NY 12123

Or donate to the national Third Act organization or other causes John cared about by using the links below:



Gallery

Memory wall

John was a lot of things to a lot of people: Husband, Father, Brother, Cousin, Teacher, Coach, Neighbor, Colleague... Share your stories and photos so others can learn more about him and his full life.


June 13, 2026
In the fall of 2024 John and Cyndi took some time out of their busy schedules to meet with a group of us and offer support through Third Act Oregon, as we were figuring out what to do next. I am forever thankful to them for their help during that difficult time. Condolences to Cyndi and her daughters.
Jean Longwill
May 26, 2026
I had an instant connection with John; he was that kind of guy. Big-hearted, generous, kind. The kind of person I aspire to be. He made a lasting impact on me and our community, and I will miss him.
Robert Aughenbaugh
May 19, 2026
I call John, and by extension Cyndi, my most unlikely friend(s).
We met in Diboll, TX, which for you normal folks is the dark side of the moon.
I worked for a big wood products company there. One day I was handed a resume and was told “He’s waiting in your office.” I gave it a quick scan, saw UNH, Masters in Spanish from UNM, and East Coast roots. As I got to the office I see a guy from behind wearing a corduroy sport coat. That doesn’t seem funny or unusual but this is East TX. I know this is the only corduroy coat within a hundred miles.
I walked in, introduced myself and said “You’ve got the job, what the f*ck are you doing here?”
And so began an almost 40 year friendship (Cyndi will have to help me out with the exact year.)
I don’t have to recount what a great, funny, caring friend John was. As has been said and I’m sure felt by all is how lucky we were to know him.
Words will fail me now because I have so many memories and thoughts of John. It’s enough to say that the world is a little bit sadder place because we have lost one of our best.
Love you, Cyndi and Girls. See you at the gathering.
Rest easy, John. We’ll try to carry on as you would.
Bill Clifford
May 18, 2026
Rest in peace, John. Your spirit lives on in so many ways. Your impact on this world and upon the lives of so many is so noted.
Michael Schultz
May 18, 2026
I wanted to share some fond memories of John and express how much I cherish my decades long friendship with the McAlpine family.

I first met the McAlpines during their first summer in Ohio when I had Kelsey in swimming lessons. John, Kelsey, and Amber were daily visitors to the pool, and that season marked the beginning of a connection I will always treasure. John was a remarkably present and gentle father; I remember him being a regular volunteer during Amber’s years. He was also incredibly supportive of my marathon endeavors and always took a genuine interest in our conversations.

I am so grateful that our lives intertwined.
Katie (Sullivan) Thompson
May 15, 2026
I didn't even know John's last name until after he had passed. To me, he was the nice man at the Friday protest by the social security office who played the BEST music, a mix of old socially conscious songs from back in the day mixed with current ones about the state of things. We all danced and bounced along while waving, and it helped make the gatherings fun.
He made the rounds, taking pictures of everyone 's new signs and cheering us on. When I made one based on War! What is it good for? he had me come across the street and hold it up while he cranked the song's volume and took a video.
I think the last time I spoke with him was after I had made him a red Melt the Ice hat and he gave me some buttons that his wife had made.
Again, I didn't really know him but his kindness and positivity made a big difference to me and many others, mostly seniors, who meet there every week. He will be missed.
Melissa J Roberts
May 15, 2026
About a year after moving to Portland, I learned about Third Act Oregon and got actively involved. One of the highlights of TAO was meeting John and Cyndi and I was delighted to discover they lived 10 minutes from our home. They were so warm, loving, and welcoming, and my husband John felt the same kind of connection to them when he attended events with me. John was a wonderful friend and his energy and enthusiasm for democracy and climate work was contagious. The sudden and shocking loss of John has left an enormous hole in our hearts and community. My thoughts are with Cyndi and her family.
Roxanne Dalton
May 13, 2026
His spark of kindness, welcoming smile, inspiring words and brave energy... as we wrote postcards, marched and worked for a better world together - all will miss John.
Melissa Soll
May 12, 2026
I met John just two years ago through my volunteer work with Third Act Oregon. He was an absolutely delightful and exemplary human. Just seeing him would make me smile and laugh, even as conversation often turned to serious issues of climate, justice, and democracy. He put his beliefs into action, encouraging everyone around him to do the same. We send our love and prayers to Cyndi and to their daughters, family, and friends, and a hope that we all can carry his spirit of love and action forward.
Jenny Stout
May 11, 2026
I met John in early 2023 when Third Act Oregon was getting started, and I was trying to re-invent myself as a climate activist. John was my mentor in how to meet and engage new people, a crucial skill for an organizer. He approached everyone with gentle curiosity and unlimited friendliness. I'll miss his warmth and humor.
David Parker
May 11, 2026
I only met John a few times at Third Act but he made a big impression. I am shocked by this news. Deepest condolences to you Cyndi and to your family. I’m thankful I met John.
Harriet Cowper
May 11, 2026
I had the privilege of working with John at Hastings Middle School, in the same global language department. I had just moved from Boston, where I had gone to graduate school and taught HS, and was moving back home to Ohio. We had that fun Boston connection from the get go! He was fun and laid back, but just had this deep-seated assurance about him that made you feel like everything would be ok. When he spoke, others listened. He always stood out to me for his service - to the kids, to his family, to coaching. I know he poured endless hours into cross country - but he was also there every Friday in the winter for the "ping-pong" club - a crew of kids that stayed back at HMS in lieu of going to Mad River Mountain for ski club. I know the ping-pong club kids valued that time with him and felt cared for and important for him giving them that time and space!

Once he retired, he ALWAYS kept in touch with us. He would send notes and e-cards and tell us about his adventures in OR. Most of our little 5-person GL department had birthdays in May -- so even though I am NOT a May birthday, John would never leave me out - he always sent me a 'birthday' card in May, too, cheering us on through til the end of the school year and letting us know we were cared for!

John's life is the epitome of a "life well-lived". Full of wisdom, grace, service, healthy living, adventure, fun, and family. We all have learned so much from him and it's a loss that's come upon us far too soon.

Sending love to Cyndi, Kelsey, and Amber.
Kelly Smith
May 10, 2026
John could have written the book on being the close buddy that he was. In a world of fair weather friends, John was loyal and had a rare ability to keep in regular touch, over many years. He was genuinely interested in my life’s narrative and was a true give and take conversationalist. And as you all know, he was funny, smart, witty, well-informed, and above all, had an extremely high emotional intelligence.

His death has hit me harder than any since I lost my first wife, Melanie, in 2011. He was one of my oldest and dearest friends, and his sudden departure has left a sad hole in my heart.

I first met John at UNH and for a semester in 1982 we roomed together in a creaky old house in Newmarket, NH, where John would whip up his regular stove top stir fries and then talk about his day at our drafty kitchen table. Later, he went to Bogota for a semester, while I moved into the little hut that John had also rented and introduced me to, a small one room cabin in the middle of a field in Durham. Without water or power, it was like something out of Thoreau. I still have letters he wrote me while he was in Bogota. John had struggled in classroom Spanish, and I recall him saying he would not want to go into teaching, so it was ironic that he later found teaching Spanish as his life’s work.

We saw much less of each other for the next few years as John and Cyndi moved around the country for education and jobs, but we kept in touch that entire time and danced up a storm at their wedding in Maine. Melanie and I moved to Seattle in 91, and had the good fortune to be only a few hours from John and Cyndi, and we made several trips to Eugene in the early 90’s. I fondly recall a multi day trip to the Oregon coast right after they had Kelsey. John was an exceptional parent, and he made me optimistic about having kids of my own.

John and Cyndi left OR for Ohio, and I saw less of him for a long stretch, but we still stayed in touch. In the summer of 2020, they returned to OR and I was the first “local” friend to greet them as they were unpacking their moving truck. I’ve had the great privilege to see much more of my pal, and kept up a more regular text correspondence and did several trips with him, Cyndi, and my partner, Kate, including camping and hiking, and a week plus in Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende. One one camping trip in the Goat Rocks Wilderness, we were deluged by a scary thunder storm during the night that soaked us in our tent, while John and Cyndi stayed fairly dry. The next day we all laughed as we lay sleeping bags, mats and tent out to dry in the sun, happy that we hadn’t been fried in our tents. Mexico was fabulous, and it was great to have our personal translator. John unfortunately got food poisoning and barfed on the sidewalk (technically he wretched into a planter) right in front of Mexico City’s Tequila Museum. We often joked about the ironic humor of that moment.

Attending Kelsey’s wedding was another highlight of the last few years, and if you don’t know the story of that day’s saga, be sure to ask Cyndi. What could have been a disappointing and frustrating change of venue at the last minute, turned into glorious hill top wedding celebration, thanks to John and Cyndi’s frantic efforts and good luck. When the reception music finally started, John danced with uninhibited joy.

On most of our trips to OR, from Seattle, I would take long walks with John on the trails in Tigard, sometimes just the two of us, and then including Charlie, their new canine family member. If you ever ran or walked with John, you know that for many of us, he had to dial it back a bit. That was true for the runs we did in circa 1982, and for the walks we did more recently. His long legs carried him far, and fast.

We last saw John the Sunday before he died. He met us in Portland (where my daughter, Olivia, lives) and we took a long walk from our hotel to the river and back, then sat in the hotel café and drank coffee. He was excited about the camper van they had just bought and we plotted possible trips together. He was also excited about teaching Henry tennis over the summer.

When we were ready to drive back to Seattle, John and I gave each other big hugs, and he said “Love you, man,” and I said “Love you, too.” And then we watched him leave.

Love you always, John. Wish you didn’t have to go so soon.
John Stevens
May 10, 2026
It was such a pleasure working with John (Coach) McAlpine as we stood up Third Act in Oregon. Such a gentle, sweet man, he made the Bigfoot costume come to life in such a wondrous way. While my time with him was way too short, he helped coach me in becoming a better human being.
Thor Hinckley
May 10, 2026
I met John through Third Act Oregon when they all came to Corvallis in 2023 to help us protest the banks funding climate chaos. John was kind and funny. He stood out in his Big Foot costume!
Cindy Bethell
May 10, 2026
My only contact with John was one or two brief email exchanges (having to do with Third Act Oregon). But even through this minimal contact, I sensed his warmth, insight, skill, and energy. It's a privilege to learn more about him today. How lucky we were to have him as a fellow traveler on the path. And what an enormous loss his death is, for his family, his friends, and the many folks whom he influenced and supported. My heart goes out to you.
Barbara West
May 10, 2026
So sad. He was a really good and dedicated guy. Cyndi he will be greatly missed by all
Elliot Maltz
May 9, 2026
Señor McAlpine was my Spanish teacher at Hastings Middle School. He not only taught me Spanish, but instilled in me a love for the language. I currently teach elementary school in Columbus City Schools. My school is 80% Hispanic, and while most teachers don’t speak any Spanish, I would be lying if I said I didn’t teach bilingually all day long. Connecting to these students and being able to explain things to them in their native language wouldn’t be possible without knowing Sr. McApline.

Que Dios te bendiga a ti y a tu familia.
Kelli Kahle
May 8, 2026
I'll always remember Uncle John for his kindness and warmth. He had a sense of cool, calm, collectedness about him that made you feel right at home. Most of my memories of Uncle John are from my childhood, and I've really enjoyed reading about all of his incredible accomplishments and how he truly lived life to the fullest - always taking the time to stop & smell the roses and appreciate the little things. His lifelong devotion to his family, the environment, education, and social justice causes are absolutely inspiring. My heart aches for Aunt Cyndi, Kelsey, Amber and all of your loved ones. Sending you all lots of love during this tremendously difficult time.
Patty Martin
May 7, 2026
John brought a profound sense of joy and happiness to the Martin family from the moment he married my sister, Cyndi. Together, they built a life defined by adventure, compassion, and a deep appreciation for the beauty in every day. John held a special place in his heart for my son, Adam,during the years Adam lived with them. John became a mentor and a friend. He introduced Adam to cross-country running and the simple delight of soft-serve ice cream—lessons in both perseverance and joy. John will forever be remembered for his lighthearted humor and his unshakable optimism.
Joe Martin
May 7, 2026
I first met John in the summer of 1981 when I came from Finland to North Conway as an exchange student. I was given a home by John’s parents, Jim and Sally. I was a bit older, having already finished high school and completed my military service back in Finland, and by that time, John was already a student at the University of New Hampshire. We befriended each other right away and shared many good stories and laughs over the year I stayed in New Hampshire.
After my exchange year was over and I was ready to fly back to Finland, John was getting ready for his adventures in Colombia. We spent the night before our flights departed to our separate destinations in a Chicago neighborhood. We were the only ones old enough to buy beer, and we did so, sharing a couple of them on some church stairs. We said our goodbyes, and it took until Rachel and JP’s wedding in Dallas to meet again more than 25 years later; it felt as though not a single day had passed.
We met several times after that, and I was so happy to have Cyndi and John visit me a couple of years ago. I had been planning a return visit to see him during my retirement, but time ran out. John, I miss you so much, my brother.
HEIKKI HELISTE
May 7, 2026
John and Cyndi hold a special place in our hearts. Sue ran cross country with Cyndi at UMass. I got to know John through a circle of friends linked to Camp O-At-Ka in Sebago, ME. Sue and I first met at their wedding at camp in 1989. I can't adequately express my sense of loss given the suddenness of this event. I had just seen John on Tuesday night as part of our book club. I valued every moment I got to share with him for his humor, kindness and devotion as a friend. I got to ride a bike next to him on one of his "training" runs along the Snake River, crash at their Worthington home mid-journey from West to East, visit them in Springfield, OR, convalesce in their Tigard home from Covid (and unfortunately share it with John), listen to his love of the written word in our book club for oh so many years, explore Oregon Coast Range wineries, and pull lobsters with he and Cyndi in Maine when they visited us. He was a wise and valued presence in our life, a brother and genuine mensch. We will miss him tremendously and wish strength to Cyndi, Amber and Kelsey and all his loved ones. We were all better for having him in our lives. XXBarry & Sue
Barry & Sue Woods
May 7, 2026
I had the honor of working with John for a few years. John was genuinely kind, friendly, and a joy to be around. We would often talk about travel, hiking, family, and our love of the outdoors. I consider myself a better person for having known John and I know there are hundreds of former students and colleagues who feel the same.
Mike Robertson
May 6, 2026
Hi Cyndi- This is Joe Yednock from your Worthington days. So sorry to hear about John’s passing. I found out about it in an interesting way. We left Columbus 10 years ago, moved to Florida for 6 years, and then to Oregon for 4, lived in Corvallis- worked and ventured far and wide in the PNW. I surely understand your love of that area. We moved back to Columbus year and a half ago- into a house in UA. We live about a 5 minute walk from Hastings M.S. and I have worked there year and a half as a paraprofessional. That’s how I came back in touch with the legend of John McAlpine. John was always a wonderful, gracious and generous person with himself. The world was a better place for his being here. Thank you to all who loved and nourished him back.
Joe Yednock
May 6, 2026
What an honor to have known John as he emerged as an absolutely stalwart organizer at Third Act. Like any good xc runner he made sure he ran through the finish line!
Bill McKibben
May 6, 2026
We met when John and his family moved to New Hampshire in the mid 70’s. I was instantly drawn to John and his dry wit humor almost immediately. We became fast friends and I became very close with his entire family. We lost touch over the years unfortunately with the hope of reconnecting at some time in the future. I can’t describe the feeling of loss when I learned of his passing through his sister Barb. A lesson in living life each day and reconnect with those you love today as tomorrow is never promised… I’ll miss you John and your wit and humor.. a very dear friend always..!!
Paul Luciano
May 6, 2026
I was so fortunate that my very first few years teaching overlapped with John's career at Hastings Middle School. He was a a mentor to me as both a teacher and coach. He had a special gift for connecting and building relationships with kids. I learned so much from John over the years, and I am thankful for his wisdom and guidance. I am sending his family my sincere condolences during this difficult time.
Allison Tomlin
May 6, 2026
I worked with John for many years at Hastings Middle School. John had a very special gift of truly listening to people and giving genuine advice. When I was a new runner, I often went to John for tips on how to improve my distance and heal my aches and pains. He was not only a colleague but a special friend. My heart goes out to his family at this very difficult time.
Shannon Riley
May 5, 2026
Swamp buddies!
Jim Cash
May 5, 2026
I am blessed to have had the privilege to call John a friend and colleague at Hastings Middle School. John was a passionate educator and a model of kindness and grace. When you spoke with John, he honored you with his undivided attention. My deepest sympathy to Cyndi and John's children. May warm memories bring some comfort during this challenging time.
David Monseur
May 5, 2026
John, such a fine example of a true human being. Always ready to listen and give humble helpful advice.
My best memory of John is when we dressed for Halloween at school as “Swamp Loggers,” complete with hillbilly teeth, chain saws, axes, and a canoe full of “swamp taxidermy!” Miss you buddy!
Jim Cash
May 5, 2026
I am so saddened by the news of John's passing. I worked with John at Hastings Middle School teaching Spanish for close to 20 years. My mind has been flooded with memories of fun times and laughter with this dear colleague and friend. Though they be won't be understood by all, I will cherish these memories and think that contributing them to his memory wall will help keep them alive.
•Waffle House while stranded in DC with 8th grade students on our way home from Costa Rica
•Sitting vigil on stairs all night while chaperoning students in Costa Rica
•Hilarious quotes from John in his last few years before retirement
•Pepperidge Farm birthday cakes
•Squirrels, ponds, etc.
•IB training and bat caves in Texas
•E-cards for birthdays, start of school year, etc.
•Spanish packages sent to Hastings to use in our classes

I will always cherish our friendship and time working together!
Jennifer Wiest
May 4, 2026
John a.k.a. "Mac" and I first met in the fall of 1979 in Durham, NH while competing D1 for the UNH men's track and X-Country teams. That same year UNH ranked the #2 C.C. team in all of New England behind only Providence College. I would describe Mac as a genuine "rugged individualist" who possessed a sharp, dry wit combined with a servant's heart. One standout memory I have is while visiting with him in NYC where he was working for a non-profit Bread For The World, an organization dedicated to policy changes to end world hunger. One early Sunday we were out together for a brisk morning run and were finishing up at a good clip on East 6th St which unknowingly to us was the home to the NYC Chapter of The Hell's Angels notorious motorcycle club! We could feel the piercing of eyes glaring at these two "interlopers" who quickly picked up the pace even more to escape out of there! John was a real pal and confidant of mine. A "one of a kind" friend, husband, father, mentor and I'm blessed to have known him as long as I did. An outstanding person in every way!!
Richard "Kel" Kelly
May 3, 2026
What a mammal.
Adam Smith DeMarzo
May 2, 2026
I was a teacher with John at Hastings Middle School in Upper Arlington OH. He was such a kind and thoughtful person who truly listened and cared about everyone. A treasure to all who knew him. My thoughts go out to his family.
Sarah Boyd
May 2, 2026
Three years ago, John and his wife, Cyndi, were the very first people to welcome us when we moved from Los Angeles. They appeared at our door the day after we arrived with a warm loaf of banana bread and hearts even warmer than the gift they carried. What started as a neighborly gesture blossomed into a deep and cherished friendship.

To our daughter, Amie, John was more than just a neighbor; he was a beloved uncle and grandfather figure. Whether it was cheering her on from the audience at her musical recitals or offering a kind word of encouragement, John was always there to support her. He occupied a special place in her life, offering kindness, wisdom, and a constant, friendly presence.

John will perhaps be most famously remembered for his legendary Halloween spirit. Every year, he and Cyndi transformed their garage into an elaborate "Bigfoot Den." The neighborhood will feel a little quieter—and certainly less hairy—without the sight of John dressed up in his full Bigfoot costume, bringing joy and laughter to kids and adults alike.
Our family will deeply miss his generosity, his humor, and the genuine care he showed us every day. We are better for having known him, and his legacy of kindness will live on in our hearts and the stories we share.

Rest in peace, John. You will be missed by all of us.
Sean Kim
May 2, 2026
I met John in front of the Social Security office on Lombard in Beaverton, Oregon. Strangers, soon to be “camaradas” protesting the current federal administration. We were connected by our politics, Spanish, and the influence, in our youth, of our parent’s service to communities. This past Friday, his absence next to me on Lombard was hard for me. John, in my heart and memory forever.
Elias Daniel Duarte
May 1, 2026
I met John through Third Act Oregon. What a shining light he was to our organization. John became our silent mascot, Bigfoot. Showing up in the bigfoot costume, he was everyone's favorite. He always brought joy, laughter and energy. He will leave a hole in our team bigger than one would think any individual person could. We love you John.
Laura Iwanaga
May 1, 2026
We send our sympathy to all of John’s family and remember fondly the Evening Street years and the basketball and lacrosse games and his encouragement to all the kids who hung out with Amber, especially those Linworth rascals. May his memory always be a blessing ❤️
Julie Conry and Dave Ganzfried

Honoring John


Please join us to celebrate the life of John.

We will gather outside of Portland at the Noble Ridge Tree Deck where we can remember and celebrate John amongst the trees he loved so dearly.

Please RSVP below if you plan to attend. We will send out additional information and details about the day via the email you provide in this RSVP form early June. Please submit your RSVP as soon as possible so you are included in the email list.

The location is ~60 min from Portland with about 5 miles of gravel road up to the tree deck. 


***NEW***: We are working on setting up a virtual link for the event. If you are unable to attend in person but would like to join remotely, please mark you are "NOT ATTENDING" in the RSVP below and still provide your email address. We will send an email with instructions for joining virtually a week before the event. 
John's celebration of life
Location
Noble Ridge Tree Deck
1212 Snag Mountain Road,
Washougal, WA 98671
Date/time
Sunday July 5, 2026
11:00am - 3:00pm
RSVP

WOULD YOU LIKE TO TAKE A SHUTTLE BUS TO THE VENUE FROM A CENTRAL LOCATION IN PORTLAND?
*We are looking into this and will follow up with more details if there's enough interest.

WHAT SONG(S) REMIND YOU OF JOHN?
These will be added to a playlist for the event.

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